What is Valve Replacement Surgery Procedure?

A simple explanation for patients

The valve replacement surgery involves removing a malfunctioning heart valve and replacing it with a new artificial valve. This may be performed via traditional open-heart surgery or minimally invasive techniques, depending on patient suitability. The new valve helps restore normal blood flow and improve heart function.

Simply described, valve replacement surgery means your doctor removes the damaged valve in your heart and puts in a new one, allowing blood to flow smoothly and relieving symptoms such as breathlessness and fatigue.

Why is Valve Replacement Surgery Needed?

Doctors recommend the valve replacement surgery procedure when heart valves become severely narrowed or leaky, causing significant symptoms and affecting heart health. If left untreated, valve diseases can lead to heart failure or complications. Surgery improves symptoms, increases life expectancy, and enhances quality of life.

Common Reasons and Key Conditions Treated

• Aortic or mitral valve stenosis (narrowing).

• Valve regurgitation (leakage).

• Congenital valve defects cause dysfunction.

• Symptoms such as chest pain, breathlessness, and fatigue.

• Risk of heart failure or arrhythmias.

Why Choose Manipal Hospitals for Valve Replacement Surgery?

Our hospital offers trusted valve replacement options combining surgical skill and advanced technology within a patient-centric framework.

• Experienced cardiac surgeons: Extensive expertise in both traditional and minimally invasive valve surgery.

• State-of-the-art facilities: High-tech theatres and monitoring equipment.

• Accredited care: NABH and JCI certified for safety and quality.

• Comprehensive rehabilitation: Programmes especially suited for international patients.

• Attention to comfort and infection control.

Indications for Valve Replacement Surgery Procedure

Generally, patients exhibiting severe valve disease symptoms and fit for surgery qualify for replacement. Here are some of the indications for surgery: 

• Severe valve narrowing or leak.

• Symptoms impacting daily activities.

• Preserved overall health to tolerate surgery.

• Valve anatomy unsuited for repair.

• Ability to follow post-surgical regimens.

Who Should Avoid or Delay Valve Replacement Surgery?

Certain medical conditions may require postponed surgery or alternative treatments based on a comprehensive evaluation. The following should be considered before the surgery:

• Active infections.

• Severe organ failures.

• Uncontrolled coexisting illnesses.

• Inability to participate in post-operative care.

Preparing for Valve Replacement Surgery Procedure

• A full cardiac and general medical assessment.

• Medication review and adjustment.

• Preoperative fasting and instructions.

• Lifestyle modifications, like quitting smoking.

• Travel plans and accommodation for international patients.

• Arrange caregiver support during recovery.

What Happens During the Valve Replacement Surgery Procedure?

Surgery involves anaesthesia, chest incision, connecting to a heart-lung bypass machine, removal of the diseased valve, implantation of the new valve, and closure. Minimally invasive robotic techniques may be offered for eligible cases.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

• General anaesthesia and patient monitoring.

• Incision through the chest (sternotomy or minimally invasive).

• Heart connected to cardiopulmonary bypass machine.

• The diseased valve was carefully removed.

• Prosthetic valve sewn into position.

• The heart restarted, and the surgical site closed.

Recovery After Valve Replacement Surgery

Post-surgery recovery involves ICU care, pain management, breathing support, and gradual mobilisation. International patients benefit from follow-up plans, including telemedicine and coordination with local doctors.

Risks & Complications

Risks include infection, bleeding, valve dysfunction, or stroke. We adhere to strict safety protocols. Sharing your full medical history ensures personalised, safer care.

Benefits of Valve Replacement Surgery

Key benefits include:

• Restored heart valve function, improving oxygen-rich blood flow.

• Relief from symptoms like chest pain and breathlessness.

• Reduced risk of heart failure and complications.

• Improved longevity and quality of life.

• Option of mechanical or biological valves, tailoring to the patient's lifestyle.

Cost of Valve Replacement Surgery

Valve replacement surgery in Manipal Hospitals Global is significantly more affordable, typically including surgery, hospital stay, investigations, medication, and initial rehab. Personalised cost estimates are provided after evaluation.

International Patient Support at Manipal Hospitals

We provide visa assistance, airport pickup, accommodation services, language interpreters, dietary preferences, and insurance coordination, with a dedicated coordinator guiding you throughout your care journey.